Abby shares her favorite dessert recipe: Regency Brownies with Chocolate Frosting

DEAR ABBY: I heard that your dessert recipes are fabulous. Would you print your favorite?

— Anita B. in New Jersey

DEAR ANITA:It would be one that not only I have enjoyed, but also one I have made for friends as gifts — Regency Brownies With Chocolate Frosting.

BROWNIES

1 cup butter (2 sticks)

4 ounces bittersweet chocolate

2 cups sugar

4 eggs

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

2 cups chopped walnuts

1 teaspoon vanilla

FROSTING

1 cup heavy cream

8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line the bottom of an 18-by-12-by-2-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. In a double boiler, over medium heat, melt butter and 4 ounces chocolate. Reserve. In a large bowl, beat sugar and eggs until fluffy. Add flour and salt, mixing well. Add chocolate mixture. Stir in nuts and vanilla. Pour into prepared baking pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until top is crisp and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool before pouring frosting over the top.

For the frosting: Bring cream to a boil, stirring constantly. Place chopped chocolate in a medium bowl; pour boiling cream over the chocolate and stir to blend well. Spread thin layer of warm frosting over top of brownies in pan. When cool, cut into 2-inch squares. n